Air that accumulates in the digestive tract has two ways to get out: belching and expulsion from the other end, officially known as flatulence.

Increased gas production may signal a slowing down of intestines for a number of reasons. If it is serious enough, a medical evaluation is in order.

• Some is swallowed. Carbonated drinks and foods like whipped cream and angel food cake contain excess gas. Many people actually swallow air when they are eating, causing bloating. Some people breathe incorrectly, swallowing air as they gasp or sigh.
• Bacteria in the bowel generate the rest, forming several gases that smell bad. Certain foods like beans and cabbages promote gas formation. Fruits, milk, onions, asparagus, and wheat produce gas in some people. A common parasitic infection of the bowel called Giardia can cause excessive gas. Lower-end gas is called flatus.

There is nothing to be worried about it if it doesn't bother a person or those close to him.

• Carbonated drinks should be avoided
  
• Should eat fewer whipped foods, beans and cabbages, and be aware of other foods that seem to promote gas
  
• Should be aware of the breathing patterns to discover if people are swallowing air when they sigh, gasp, or breathe heavily
  
• Should try using simethicone, an over-the-counter agent that helps gas exit the stomach upward instead of downward
  
• Physicians have other ways to treat recalcitrant gas. An evaluation may also reveal a more significant cause such as a medication, heart disease, or liver disease

• Gas may be a symptom of a significant disease, but it is usually harmless
  
• Diet and breathing patterns cause most gas problems
  
• Simple diet changes or over-the-counter medications usually solve the problem
  
• Should always check with a physician if significant symptoms persist or intensify